As a busy mum, I sometimes struggle to look after my hair properly. When I’ve had a sleepless night I don’t want to spend valuable tea drinking time on hair care. But when my hair looks good, I feel better about myself and I often forget that I’m tired and sleep deprived. So over the years I have learnt some hair care tips that can get this busy mum out the door with lovely looking tresses.
Hair Care Tips for Busy Mums
Hair Care Products
Using the right hair care products is the key to having healthy and beautiful hair.
You should treat your hair care as you would your skin care. For example, you would never buy a moisturiser for very dry skin if your skin is oily and prone to break outs.
The same rules apply to hair care. It is important to become familiar with your hair. Is it dry, oily, curly, straight, frizzy, flyaway, lank or a combination of these? Once you have worked out what your hair is like then you need to make sure that you use the right products for that hair type.
My hair is very fine. It breaks easily and the ends are dry. I use products that are designed to lock in moisture.
But it also has a tendency to become greasy if I use products that are too heavy. To combat this, I use shampoos and conditioner that work with the natural oils of my hair. And that are light enough not to weigh my hair down.
Over the years I have discovered some fabulous hair care products. Sadly, I don’t own all of these at the moment. But these are definitely on my Amazon wish list and are my products of choice when my hair is in need of some pampering.
Shampoo and Conditioner
1. Recently my hair has been lank and flat. So I’ve been using a shampoo designed to give my hair volume. John Frieda Luxurious Volume 7 Day Volume Shampoo is brilliant at giving my hair some lift and oomph. It also leaves my hair feeling beautifully soft and moisturised.
2. If I use one shampoo for too long then my hair can get used to it. So I like to alternate between two. My other choice of shampoo is the new L’Oréal Elvive Haircare Fibrology Air Shampoo. This latest innovation in hair care is especially designed for fine hair. It is light and cleansing. And is perfect for when I want my hair to be clean and fresh.
3. Conditioner is as important as shampoo. But if I use too much my hair can become lank and greasy. It can look like I haven’t bothered to wash it at all. That is why I love to use John Frieda Luxurious Volume 7 Day Volume Conditioner. It conditions my hair and gives it the added volume it desperately needs.
Additional Hair Care Products
It isn’t enough to have only shampoo and conditioner in your hair arsenal. Your hair deserves to be pampered.
If you want to avoid those days when a hat is your only remedy then my main recommendation is to give your hair some extra love and TLC. When I can I use a blow dry spray, a hair oil and a hair mask to really show my locks I care.
1. Once a fortnight I will use L’Oréal Elvive Haircare Fibrology Air Masque. This hair mask is the final weapon in my battle against bad hair. It gives my hair a chance to recover from all the stress it is put under from constant styling. It moisturises, thickens, protects and strengthens. Perfect!
2. Before styling hair, it is important to use a Heat Protection Spray. I hate the idea of drying or styling without protecting my locks first. So I liberally apply Lee Stafford Original Heat Protection Shine Mist Spray 200 ml.
3. If my hair is still looking a little frizzy and flyaway then I use Kerastase Elixir Ultime The Imperial Radiance Beautifying Oil. Just one pump of this beautifying dry oil smooths my hair and leaves it shiny and soft.
The lovely people at John Frieda recently sent me some other products from their Luxurious Volume range to try. So as well as using the shampoo and conditioner (which I had purchased myself) I’ve been using the John Frieda 7 Day Volume In-Shower Treatment and their Perfectly Full Mousse.
4. My hair is so straight that it can often look like a Morticia Addams wig. So sometimes I need to pamper my hair with a treatment that is designed to treat my limp hair. That is why the John Frieda 7 Day Volume In-Shower Treatment* is fantastic. As a busy mum, it is brilliant that this treatment works its magic in only a few minutes while I’m in the shower. And it makes such a difference and lasts over a number of hair washes.
5. I’ve always been a fan of hair mousse. Hair spray makes my hair too stiff and untouchable. But mousse holds my hair in place and gives volume. I’ve noticed that the John Frieda Perfectly Full Mousse* gives my hair the best lift of any other mousse I’ve tried.
Hair Styling tips for busy mums
Once your hair is in perfect condition you’ll want to find some quick and easy hairstyles that work for you. I have a handful of go-to styles that are simple to do and that make the most of my hair.
When time is short then I like to put my hair up. I found most of my every day hairstyles through watching YouTube tutorials.
These are my four favourite hairstyles for helping my hair look fab in a matter of minutes:
1. Dutch Side Braid
This Dutch Side Braid is based on the hairstyle that Jennifer Lawrence wears as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games. It takes quite a bit of practise at first. But once you’ve mastered it then this hairstyle is quick, easy and looks lovely.
2. Twisted Side Ponytail
This twisted side ponytail is my favourite hairstyle (it is actually how my hair is styled today). It is a cute and feminine variation of the side ponytail. And it is perfect for anyone (who like me) has flat hair and needs some volume around the crown. In the photographs above, I’ve twisted the hair on both sides of my head. You can adapt this style by moving your parting or twisting your hair on only one side.
3. Double Bun
If I need to get out of the door in a hurry then a double bun is my favourite updo. And it is so easy. This style is also perfect when my hair is greasy or wet.
a) Section hair into a half ponytail.
b) Twist ponytail into a bun and secure it with Kirby grips.
c) Place the remaining hair into a ponytail and twist into a bun.
d) Secure the second bun with Kirby grips.
This style can be loose and messy or as neat as you want it to be.
4. Blow-dry
I am hopeless at blow drying my hair. I find it so dull.
After reading Sali Hughes’ recommendations in The Guardian and watching her video I decided to buy myself the BaByliss Big Hair.
Best. Purchase. Ever!
It is simple to use and it gives me a sleek, smooth and effortless blow dry in 10 minutes.
8 Fabulous Hair Care Tips for Busy Mums
1. Drink plenty of water. Try to drink at least 2 litres of water a day.
2. Swap your early morning cuppa for a cup of hot water and fresh lemon.
3. Take omega 3 fish oil supplements.
4. Do NOT wash your hair in hot water. The water should be warm and if you can brave it you should finish your hair wash with a blast of cold water.
5. Rinse thoroughly. I guarantee that most women do not spend enough time rinsing the shampoo and conditioner out of their hair. If your hair is often lank and greasy then this could be the problem.
6. Always use a heat protection spray before blow drying or styling your hair.
7. Protect your hair from the elements. Try to wear a hat in the summer and use a product which includes a UV filter.
8. Have a regular hair cut. A regular hair cut is necessary for keeping your hair in great condition. It will rid your hair of split ends and a fabulous new style is always a huge boost to self confidence.

Don’t forget to pin Hair Care Tips for Busy Mums to refer to later.
If you’re a busy mum then I would love to hear your hair care tips.
Hugs
Lucy
xxxx
Disclosure
I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co.uk.
I was sent the products marked with an * for the purpose of this post. But as always all words and opinions are my own and 100% honest.
39 Comments
hairs
November 5, 2017 at 1:53 pmI need to sort mine out! I had it cut short. Regretted it and now it goes up most of the time!
Hair Deals Near Me
July 11, 2017 at 3:33 amawesome! i love this post and thank you for sharing been reading some blogs and articles i find this one so informative! than you for sharing!!! god bless!
Sarah
April 16, 2017 at 9:42 pmSome really great tips here, especially the styles. I’m definitely guilty of not spending enough time washing the shampoo and conditioner out! Too often I’ve found a patch of conditioner not washed or properly and not had time to re-wash it so just chucked it up on top of my head and hidden it under a headband! Xx
Lisa (mummascribbles)
April 16, 2017 at 8:48 pmI really dislike my hair! At the moment I don’t do anything with it because Oscar loves to yank it. I used to have it really short and loved it but it’s too long to style with kids around! Will take some of your tips on board!
Lucy Melissa Smith
April 16, 2017 at 7:30 pmThese are really good tips lovely, what a fabulous and informative post! My hair is definitely frizzy, I never really thought about making sure I’m using the right shampoo and conditioner or anything like that, I guess I didn’t think it’d make much difference but it’s quite unmanageable at the moment so I’ll give it a try 🙂 xx
Al
April 16, 2017 at 8:36 amAny tips for a receding busy dad’s hairline? Maybe it’s time to invest in a hat! I’ll pass this post on to Jen 🙂
Amy@ The Smallest Of Things
April 16, 2017 at 6:31 amThe twisted side ponytail really suits you Lucy 🙂 you are so good at looking after your hair! I just about manage to wash it and give it a rough dry haha! I’m the same I have to change my shampoo and conditioner up otherwise my hair gets used to it ox
Lisa | Pass The Prosecco Please
January 15, 2017 at 11:58 pmLove this!
I have started washing my hair with baby shampoo by accident and it feels so nice!
I also love a braid, when I’m in a hurry/frizzy/greasy I leave inch long sections down each side of my fringe and pooff the rest into a messy bun. Plait the sections and pin, looks smart and so quick xx
Julia @ rainbeaubelle
June 28, 2015 at 6:38 pmmy hair is in need of so much love it just doesn’t feel good at all at the moment, I have just been drinking in your tips and need to go on a shopping spree for new products! Great post xx
Mrs H
July 2, 2015 at 7:59 pmThank you for your lovely comment. I love spending time on my hair. I regret the fact that I had it cut short as I could do so many lovely styles that would be perfect for this heat. Happy product shopping. Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Rachel
April 27, 2015 at 7:58 amOh I love this. I hate having bad hair but I am not very up on what I should be doing to keep it in good condition. I have decided to grow my hair a little so these tips are great for me! I am guilty of washing it in hot water, I will give it a blast with cold water (eek) in the morning! xx
Mrs H
April 28, 2015 at 9:06 amThanks for your comment. The blast of cold water can be a shock at first. But I now really like it. It wakes me up in the morning. Enjoy growing your hair. Get a godd cut first and then go for it. I ironically had my hair cut into a long bob the day after publishing this post. Ha ha! Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Shona Sweeney
April 10, 2015 at 8:13 pmGreat post and tips. I do like your hair. I have fine hair but no matter what I do it’s condition is awful. x
Elaine @ Entertaining Elliot
March 30, 2015 at 9:15 pmI love Lee Stafford products, they smell lovely! I’ve had the same haircut for about 15 years now, I’m not very adventurous!! Your hair looks lovely btw xx
Heledd @heleddlavender
March 29, 2015 at 9:15 pmOh I’m obsessed by hair products! (you know me anything beauty related) I love Kerastase products and that Moroccan Oil. Also, I’m totally in love with my GHD straighteners and hair dryer. Great post, fab hair xxx
The DADventurer (Dave)
March 24, 2015 at 6:39 amUs blokes have it so much easier – just get your hair cut short then you don’t have to do anything with it! 🙂
Katy {What Katy Said}
March 23, 2015 at 11:03 amOooh not sure id be brave enough for a blast of cold water!! I love number 3 hair style, I need to try and make more of an effort with mine- I always just throw it up into a ponytail! x
You Baby Me Mummy
March 22, 2015 at 6:03 pmFab post my love! I don’t do half of this, but my hair isn’t as nice as yours! Thanks for all your fab tips xxxx
Ninjacat
March 22, 2015 at 4:31 pmYou’ve such beautiful hair
I’m trying to grow mine
I love the idea of deep treatment on my hair
If your hair feels good you do to
Charlotte @ Educating Elsa
March 20, 2015 at 9:27 pmI am impressed with how much effort you put into looking after your hair! I wash mine with whatever shampoo and conditioner is on offer at the supermarket and then I leave it to dry naturally. I don’t own a hairdryer or straighteners so my hair is usually a big mess and ends up scraped into a bun. I just don’t think I’d have the time or the inclination to sit and make it look nice!
Mrs H
March 21, 2015 at 9:27 pmHi Charlotte. Thanks for your comment. I think I make effort with my hair because it is the only feature I really genuinely like. When my self-confidence is low I like to know that at least I look nice. For me it is all about presenting myself to the world. If that makes sense at all?! Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Sarah Christie
March 20, 2015 at 9:20 pmFab post, so true rinsing your hair in cold water makes it shine and products are so important to protect your hair xx
Mrs H
March 21, 2015 at 9:36 pmThank you for your lovely comment Sarah. I am so pleased that you enjoyed the post. As a professional, your praise means a huge amount to me. Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Morna
March 20, 2015 at 5:57 pmI have hair shame now ! I am going product shopping…..just as soon as I’ve used up all the dregs of conditioner from the bottom of the bathroom cabinet!
Mrs H
March 20, 2015 at 7:27 pmDon’t have hair shame. I have a weird obsession with my hair and buying hair products. I don’t think I’m normal. Ha ha. Thanks for your comment. Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Lisa@ intotheglade
March 19, 2015 at 8:40 pmI have the Babyliss big hair and absolutely love it! I also love the Lee Stafford products, they work and smell gorgeous! I have just started drinking water and lemon in the morning, I didn’t realise it helps your hair too!! Your hair is lovely. Thank you for the great advice x
Mrs H
March 21, 2015 at 10:07 pmThank you for your kind words. I think hot water and lemon is very good for cleansing your system and that helps your overall health and the appearance of your hair. Plus, if it means you skip a shot of caffine first thing in the morning then that has to be good. I LOVE my Babyliss Big Hair. I really don’t know how I would manage without it. Hugs Mrs H xxxx
mummyofboygirltwins
March 19, 2015 at 5:25 pmBeautiful, lovely hair. Mine is often very dry and I have split ends so this is great advice and tips! Thank you 🙂 Love these pictures of you. Jess x
Mrs H
March 21, 2015 at 9:45 pmAwww, Jess. Thanks for your lovely comment. I always think your hair is stunning! I have very dry hair and get split ends. So for me I try to keep my hair hydrated as much as possible. Both inside and out. I use lots of conditioning treatments and drink a lot of water. Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Caro | The Twinkles Momma
March 19, 2015 at 11:57 amLOVE this post Luce!! Absolutely BRILLIANT!! It’s always lovely to see what products other girls use.
I have been on a mission to find the perfect shampoo after watching a programme that talked about SLS (Sodium Lauryl — or Laureth — Sulfate) in shampoo. Apparently, it’s the same stuff that is in the detergent mechanics use to clean the floor of their garages!! YUK.
Since then, I’ve been hunting for a decent shampoo — that actually works — and FINALLY after a year long search I think I’ve finally found the perfect one for me!! 🙂 It’s made an incredible difference to my hair. It’s always lovely when you find something that works for you isn’t it? X Thanks so much for linking up with #TwinklyTuesday
Caro | http://www.thetwinklediaries.co.uk
Mrs H
March 21, 2015 at 9:47 pmThanks for hosting #TwinklyTuesday lovely. I had heard about those ingredients before and it does worry me. And ideally I would love to use organic hair care products. But organic shampoos etc always give me a massive reaction with my sensitive skin. What is the new shampoo that you use and love? Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Rachel
March 19, 2015 at 9:06 amYou really do have beautiful hair and so clever to be able to do all those styles! I sometimes wish mine was long again but I never really made the most of styling it so it’s just easier short… I really might think about growing it again though!
Mrs H
March 21, 2015 at 9:52 pmThank you for your lovely comment, Rachel. I love your haircut. It really suits your face shape. I think it is so important to know what hair styles and cuts suit you. And you completely rock short hair. I had all mine chopped off once and I completely hated it. So I am better off keeping mine a little longer. Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Multicultural Motherhood
March 19, 2015 at 12:20 amI actually wear a headscarf so don’t spend a lot of time on my hair. I like your hairstyles 🙂
#twinklytuesday
Mrs H
March 21, 2015 at 10:13 pmThank you for your comment and kind compliment. Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Jenna
March 18, 2015 at 4:34 pmUh, your hair is freakin’ amazing.
I have no idea how to do anything with mine. I’m totally rubbish when it comes to styling hair. This is a really useful post, Mrs H!
Jenna at Tinyfootsteps xx
Mrs H
March 21, 2015 at 9:54 pmThanks for your lovely comment Jenna. I really had no idea how to style my hair until I discovered YouTube. It has been my style saviour. You can learn how to do every hairstyle ever invented on YouTube. I am addicted to make-up and hair videos on YouTube. It is quite sad. Hugs Mrs H xxxx
Donna
March 18, 2015 at 3:56 pmYou have lovely hair. After having LP my hair felt really fine and flyaway and took far to much effort to have down so I used to tie it back all the time. I decided it was easier to get it cut short and have had it short for over 2 years now. I do miss my long hair sometimes though x
Mrs H
March 18, 2015 at 4:37 pmThank you so much for your lovely comment and kind compliment. I used to have really short hair and it is sooooooo much easier. But I do really love the versatility of having long hair. There are so many things I can do with it. Having said that it is a little too long at the moment and I plan to have an inch or so chopped off tomorrow. Hugs Mrs H xxxx